Embrace Quiet Luxury: 8 Essential Pieces for Timeless Elegance on a Budget

After scrolling through a bunch of reels on Instagram and shorts on YouTube, one thing is for sure: the world of fashion is being taken over by quiet luxury. Introducing “quiet luxury,” a movement that embraces a minimalist approach to fashion and a curated capsule wardrobe. It’s not just dominating the runways for spring, but also finding its way into our shopping carts.

So, what exactly is quiet luxury? It’s all about clothing and accessories that exude an expensive allure while remaining timeless and free from ostentatious logos. The shift towards quiet luxury signifies a transformation in our shopping habits, as we now prioritize quality over quantity and seek to make long-term investments in our wardrobe.

Quiet luxury also encourages the appreciation of vintage pieces that showcase exceptional artistry and craftsmanship. It encompasses the choice of designer bags that offer a low cost per wear, favoring subtle elegance over overt branding. By focusing on essentials, creating a quiet luxury look becomes an effortless endeavor. In this article, we present the eight must-have quiet luxury essentials that deserve your investment.

#1: SUIT VEST

To beat the heat in style, consider investing in a comfortable linen vest. Brunello Cucinelli offers a menswear-inspired staple that pairs effortlessly with a pleated midi skirt. Complete the look with loafers and classic sunglasses from renowned brands like Saint Laurent.

#2: LONGLINE DENIM SKIRT

Long denim skirts are currently in high demand, and it’s no wonder why. You can find a minimalist maxi denim skirt from Guess or explore other options such as Alice + Olivia. Pair it with sandals for a stylish ensemble that exudes quiet luxury.

#3: TAILORED COATS

Whether you want to exude power or look fashion-forward on your next overseas trip, consider investing in tailored coats or thrifted designer pieces. Max Mara is a brand that exemplifies these qualities, but emerging designers like Toteme have also created covetable outerwear that perfectly captures the quiet luxury aesthetic.

#4: STRUCTURED BAGS

Contrary to the idea of purchasing bags solely for their easily recognizable logos or trendy shapes, the quiet luxury movement places less emphasis on brand recognition. While logos still hold appeal for luxury brands like Gucci and Louis Vuitton, others have completely abandoned this notion.

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Logo-free bags, such as Polène’s Numéro Neuf and The Row’s Park Small Tote Bag, have gained popularity. These structured leather bags are simple, elegant, and embody the essence of quiet luxury.

#5: UNDERSTATED SHOES

An outfit is only as good as the shoes that accompany it, and in the realm of quiet luxury, there are no exceptions. When it comes to shoes, they should stand out without overpowering the rest of your look. Opt for styles that will remain appealing for years to come. Currently, loafers and ballet flats are the epitome of quiet luxury, capturing its essence perfectly.

#6: MICRO FRENCH MANICURE

How does quiet luxury translate to manicures, you might wonder? Think of micro French manicures, subtle shimmer, pale pinks, and sheer neutrals with delicate metallic accents. It’s all about maintaining an understated elegance. Start by applying a semi-sheer pink, peachy nude shade, or taupe. This color should be barely visible, yet not fully opaque. Then, delicately draw a very thin line on the edge of the nail using white nail polish.

#7: NUDE T-SHIRTS

Instead of bold-colored tees, opt for a foundation of warm neutrals and soft shades of white. Pops of rich earthy tones like rust, olive, and sage can add welcome touches of color. While black and deep shades like navy are also used in quiet luxury-inspired spaces, most bold colors are generally avoided in favor of a more understated, predominantly neutral palette.

You don’t need to break the bank on basic tees. Visit Uniqlo, where you can find the best T-shirts at affordable prices, ensuring you maintain your quiet luxury style without compromising on your budget.

#8: LINEN BLAZER

For high-quality, meticulously crafted staple items made to stand the test of time, Everlane is the go-to brand. There, you can discover the hand-picked Oversized Linen Blazer, featuring a shape inspired by menswear. This 100% linen blazer is available in different sizes and comes in four colors: Canvas, Canvas and Navy, Light Blue, and Kalamata.

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Focus on reducing your luxury purchases and being mindful with them. Quality trumps quantity. Elevate your wardrobe with these timeless pieces that perfectly embody the essence of quiet luxury. Embrace the elevated, understated style.

Sources: 1, 2, & 3

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Why Buying Second-Hand Luxury Items Benefits Your Wallet

Are you tired of feeling deceived by knock-off brands and paying exorbitant prices for fast fashion when shopping online? If that resonates with you, it’s time to delve into the world of luxury resale.

During my recent trip to Japan, I had the opportunity to explore second-hand outlet shops in Osaka and Tokyo. I was pleasantly surprised by the positive reception towards buying second-hand luxury items. The Japanese have an interesting belief that possessions acquire their own spirit over time, which can either bless or haunt their owners. To avoid any potential haunting, they choose to either discard or sell items they have owned for an extended period.

While the thrill of unboxing brand-new items is undeniable, many people overlook the fact that they can still enjoy a fantastic experience while simultaneously making an environmental impact by opting for second-hand goods. Join others in embracing the world of second-hand luxury and discover the incredible benefits it offers, including:

#1: HELP THE ENVIRONMENT

Is it possible to save the environment while you shop? Sustainability has become a key focus for everyone, and purchasing second-hand luxury items is a meaningful way to contribute. Excessive consumption has devastating effects on the environment, as buying new items leads to increased production and strains our resources. Opting for second-hand items indirectly reduces the demand for materials like leather, sending a message to the industry.

Choosing to buy second-hand products actively reduces waste and gives items a second life, lowering our carbon footprint. It’s remarkable how second-hand purchases rescue products that could have ended up in landfills. Contrary to common misconceptions, used items are often in excellent condition and fully functional. Many are sold simply because their owners no longer need or want them, making them valuable finds in the second-hand market.

#2: GET TIMELESS STYLE

The beauty of luxury products lies in their timeless appeal. A dear friend of mine owns a vintage Chanel handbag. Despite being decades old, the bag exudes an air of sophistication and elegance that never goes out of style. The bag’s enduring charm serves as a reminder that investing in second-hand luxury allows you to maintain a refined and fashionable look without the fear of appearing dated.

Whether it’s a beautiful bag, elegant jewelry, or high-end clothing, these items have the remarkable ability to transcend fleeting trends. By embracing second-hand luxury, you unlock a world of style possibilities that stand the test of time.

#3: REDUCE COSTS

Unless you have a well-paying job or exceptional personal savings habits, purchasing luxury consumer goods can significantly strain your finances. Luxury items often come with hefty price tags, but the good news is that buying them second-hand can lead to substantial savings.

It’s important to note that used items can still be in excellent condition. In fact, you can discover luxury brands that look brand new but are available at just half the retail price.

During my trip to Japan, I stumbled upon a pre-loved Gucci Abbey D-Ring Shoulder Bag priced at a mere S$250. Considering that it could easily cost around S$950 in online second-hand stores, this was an incredible deal. It’s quite astounding to think about the steep difference between the discounted price and its full retail value.

#4: SHOP EASILY WITH THE SECOND-HAND MARKET

In the past, one of the major hurdles faced by those interested in purchasing second-hand goods was the limited availability of certain items. This often resulted in compromises when trying to save money or contribute to the environment.

However, the game has changed, thanks to the Internet. Nowadays, you have access to expansive online markets that offer a diverse array of items, making it more convenient than ever to find exactly what you’re looking for.

While local thrift shops remain a viable option, searching through international online platforms presents you with the best saving opportunities and an abundance of options.

#5: DISCOVER NEW OPTIONS

Do you play it safe in fashion? By consistently adhering to safe and conventional choices when purchasing new products, you may inadvertently overlook distinctive items that could perfectly suit your needs.

Whether you have an affinity for luxury clothing or bags, you will be astounded by the hidden gems awaiting your discovery in second-hand shops. The alluring aspect of used items lies in their affordable price, as it enables you to explore beyond your comfort zone without incurring substantial financial burdens.

#6: ACCESS LIMITED-EDITION ITEMS

Buying specific, limited-edition items becomes significantly easier in the second-hand market, especially when it pertains to past limited-edition bags or accessories from your favorite brands. These sought-after items are often unavailable in stores but can frequently be found within the realm of second-hand shopping. Moreover, elusive treasures such as the highly coveted Birkin bag, typically beyond the reach of the average shopper, become more attainable when seeking pre-owned alternatives.

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By wholeheartedly embracing the realm of second-hand luxury, you not only save money but also contribute to environmental preservation, all while unearthing unique treasures that bestow elegance and refinement upon your life.

So, what are you waiting for? Initiate your exploration into the boundless possibilities of second-hand shopping today!

Sources: 1 & 2

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Psychology of Money: How Our Emotions Affect Our Finances

Money, an essential aspect of our lives, goes beyond its tangible form. It holds a deep connection with our emotions, influencing our financial decisions and shaping our financial well-being. In fact, a study performed by Nobel Prize-winning psychologist Daniel Kahneman found that we make financial decisions based 90% on emotion and only 10% on logic.

Financial therapist and wealth counselor Marilyn Wechter further illustrates this through philanthropy. “Philanthropy isn’t just a strategy to reduce your tax liability, but a wonderful thing to do that’s usually motivated by emotion,” she said. The act of giving exudes happiness in the benefactor, even if it requires some sacrifice on their part.

Much like this example, understanding the psychology of money is crucial for gaining control over our finances and achieving long-term financial success. Let’s delve into the intricate relationship between emotions and money and explore how our psychological tendencies can impact our financial lives!

#1: EMOTIONAL SPENDING

Do you practice retail therapy?

Emotional spending, often referred to as “retail therapy,” is a prevalent coping mechanism employed to alleviate feelings of sadness, stress, or other negative emotions. The act of purchasing items may provide temporary relief and a fleeting sense of well-being. However, relying on material possessions to fill emotional voids can initiate a destructive cycle of overspending and financial instability. The consequences become evident when the dreaded credit card bills arrive.

To break free from this detrimental pattern, it is crucial to develop healthier coping strategies. Engaging in physical activity, practicing mindfulness, or seeking emotional support are effective ways to cultivate a more balanced and constructive relationship with money.

#2: INSTANT GRATIFICATION

One of the common emotional traps we often fall into is the allure of impulse spending to satisfy our immediate urges and desires. The exhilarating feeling of acquiring something new can provide a temporary high, but it frequently results in remorse after the purchase. To effectively manage this behavior, it is essential to grasp the psychological factors influencing our spending habits, including the need for validation. By gaining this understanding, you can take proactive measures to restrain your impulse spending.

A helpful strategy is to be intentional with your purchases and practice a waiting period of at least 24 hours before committing to significant expenses. This delay allows you to reassess the necessity and importance of the purchase, reducing the likelihood of impulsive decisions. During this time, reflect on whether the item truly aligns with your long-term financial goals and values.

#3: SOCIAL COMPARISON

Are you following social media accounts that frequently highlight their travel destinations and luxurious possessions? Humans are prone to comparison, and the age of social media has only amplified this tendency.

Witnessing others flaunting their extravagant lifestyles can evoke feelings of inadequacy, ultimately leading to excessive spending and financial strain. However, it is crucial to remember that each person’s financial journey is unique, and genuine financial success arises from aligning our actions with our individual financial goals.

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Engaging in self-examination is an effective way to prevent jealousy from influencing our financial decisions. It involves being completely honest and removing the influence of others’ opinions from the equation. By doing so, we can transform jealousy into motivation. Instead of fixating on what others have, shift your focus towards your own progress and cultivate a sense of gratitude for what you have achieved.

#4: GUILTY FEELINGS

People who are more prone to guilt are also more inclined towards altruism. In the best-case scenario, this altruistic inclination motivates us to share our abundance with others through charitable contributions. However, in the worst-case scenario, it can lead us to spend money that we actually need for ourselves on others.

To prevent such situations and maintain a healthy balance, it is essential to establish limits. One effective way to avoid going overboard is by setting budgets for specific expenses, such as when giving Christmas or birthday gifts. By implementing a budget, we can ensure that our generosity aligns with our financial capabilities and responsibilities. Remember, being mindful of our own needs and financial limitations does not diminish the value of our altruistic intentions.

#5: MONEY AVOIDANCE

Emotions such as anxiety, shame, or fear can significantly contribute to financial procrastination and avoidance of money-related responsibilities. Failing to address these emotions and neglecting financial issues can have severe consequences for our long-term financial well-being.

We have the ability to overcome these obstacles and regain control over our finances. It starts with acknowledging and addressing the underlying emotions that hinder our progress. Seeking professional help and guidance is a valuable step in this process. In Singapore, there are various reputable financial advisers available, such as Singapore Financial Planners, Expat Advisory Group, Providend, and Synergy Financial Advisers. It is important to find an institution that aligns with your specific needs.

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In conclusion, our emotions and financial lives are deeply intertwined. By understanding the psychology of money and acknowledging the impact of our emotions, we can empower ourselves to make prudent financial decisions. Let’s embark on this journey of self-awareness, resilience, and financial empowerment, one step at a time.

Sources:1,2, & 3

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How to Save Money to Grow Your KPop Merch Collection

Fangirls and fanboys show their love for their idols in different ways. While some fans show their loyalty by attending every concert, others show their appreciation by purchasing KPop merchandise. Buying albums is one of the best ways to support their idols as it will help the singers or bands to hit top spots in the physical and digital music charts.

To help you get started in buying and saving for KPop merchandise (merch), here is an easy guide:

CHOOSE EITHER OFFICIAL OR UNOFFICIAL MERCH

There are two types of KPop merch – official and unofficial goods. The former is released by the KPop star’s entertainment company. Official merch includes albums, photo books, lightsticks, concert items, and DVDs. A percentage of the sales will go straight to your idols. The latter is usually cheaper than the former. The unofficial goods are fan made and will support the fans’ small businesses. Unofficial goods include fanarts printed on shirts, mugs, stationery items, and keychains.

SCOUT FOR DISCOUNTS

Always keep a lookout for discounts on shops that offer KPop merchandise. Start by scanning online to see whether these stores have posted their recent promotions and events on their websites and social media pages. You can also inquire locally by asking physical merchants whether they have an upcoming promotion. Compare their rates to Singapore marketplaces to ensure that you get the best deals.

KNOW WHERE TO SHOP

KPop merchandise is available on international websites such as Amazon and YesAsia. Items are also available in physical stores such as Infinity Kpop (City Gate) and House of Kpop (Orchard Road). You must first identify the merchandise that you are looking for. Then, do your research on the prices offered by the physical and online stores. Choosing the cheapest places to purchase your desired items will help you save a considerable amount of cash.

MANAGE YOUR CASH

If you are planning to purchase the newest album by ENHYPEN or NewJeans, allot a specific budget by planning ahead. To avoid using your credit cards or borrowing money that is not yet in your hands, you can save up for the coveted item.

For instance, you are expecting that you’ll be getting your salary in a few days, so you decided to pre-order the merchandise and pay for it later. Once you receive your salary, you may experience cash shortage because of your fixed expenses. Having a plan helps avoid overspending and debts.

RESIST THE MARKETING TRAPS

Marketers want you to spend money by targeting their ads to the people who are able to shell out their cash in Kpop merchandise. They have this mentality of: “Don’t go broke but also buy, buy, buy.” It is the marketing department’s job to sell you items, even if you do not need them. So, do your best to resist the marketing traps.

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If your savings are not enough to fund your attendance at all the concerts or your eagerness to collect all your idol’s albums, do not let the marketers sway you. Find price-comparison websites to get the best deals before purchasing goods featuring BTS, Jessi, BLANKPINK, and so on.

Sources: 1 & 2

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Grocery Shopping Mistakes That Might Be Keeping You Poor

Championing your grocery runs takes experience and skill. As a young adult, you may encounter challenges and make shopping mistakes along the way. As you become more experienced, you will be able to pick the right items while trying to save money.

From buying only name-brand products to buying fruits that are out of season, here are some supermarket mistakes that are slimming your wallet.

#1: YOU ONLY GET NAME-BRAND PRODUCTS

Say you enter the halls of the grocery and find countless options in the aisles. Keep your eyes peeled on the products in the topmost or lower shelves. These shelves often stock up on generic or store-exclusive products. You can get similar-quality products for a fraction of the price when you do not snob these generic products. Brand does not always equate to quality.

#2: YOU DO NOT CHECK THE PRICE PER KILO

When you are buying fresh produce, a good indicator of value for money is the price per kilo on its label. Do not always presume that loose produce is the best option. Sometimes, packed fruits and vegetables are cheaper. Get the best deal every time you shop by getting into the habit of comparing loose produce to different packaging sizes.

#3: YOU OFTEN BUY THINGS THAT ARE OUT OF SEASON

Various vegetables and fruits are less available during certain times of the year. The shortage of supply influenced by the high demand hikes up the price in the supermarkets. When this happens, you will be paying more. Keep track of what is in and out of season through helpful charts. Not only will the produce be tastier, but it will be cheaper too!

For instance, blueberries can cost up to S$10 when it is off-season compared to the price of around S$5 when they are in season. During the off-season, you can look for canned substitutes such as peaches and pineapples.

#4: YOU TEND TO IGNORE THE SELL-BY DATE

Do not pick up the first packet of meat you see, as tired as you might be. Inspect the food first, before leaving the store. Visible brown spots are telltale signs that the meat is about to go bad. Check the sell-by date too. You do not want to waste your money on meat that is about to reach the end of its shelf life.

#5: YOU IGNORE THE FREE SERVICES

Did you know that some supermarkets provide free services such as descaling and filleting? If you are a newbie cook or you just do not have a good handle on fish, it is best to take advantage of the free services offered at the supermarket. Otherwise, you will ruin a good fish.

#6: YOU GO TO THE STORE WITHOUT A LIST

Making a meal plan for the week will help you reduce your waste and encourage more savings. Make a list before you visit the nearest supermarket. Remember to check what is available in your own home too before you start planning what you are going to bring home.

#7: YOU BOUGHT MEAT FIRST

The longer the amount of time your meat spends in room temperature, the higher the chances of bacteria growing on it. When there are more bacteria on the meat, its lifespan becomes shorter, even if it is kept in the fridge. So, if you have an extensive list of items to grab, let meat be the last item before heading to the cashier.

#8: YOU SKIP PRODUCE WITH SPECKS OR SPOTS

The appearance of fresh produce is often manipulated by manufacturers to make it look more attractive to consumers. When fresh produce looks unnaturally spotless, it is usually because of the wax or pesticides that make them look fresh and shiny. Avoid these chemicals by embracing fruits and vegetables with natural spots or specks.

#9: YOU FORGET ABOUT THE DIFFERENCES IN PACKAGE SIZING

Many people go through the supermarket aisles and only look at the prices. While it is an excellent idea to pay attention to the price tag, you should also consider the size of the products that you are purchasing.

While one item on the shelf may be cheaper, due to packaging, you may get less product on a similar item that only costs a few cents more. When you are aware of the package price and size, you can make a more informed decision. Spend more money on things that will actually last longer.

#10: YOU TEND TO BUY THINGS THAT GO BAD QUICKLY IN BULK

Coming inside the grocery store with a list in hand does not always end up the way you want it to. Even experienced grocery shoppers buy too much of what they need. When it concerns highly perishable goods (e.g., strawberries, broccoli, and spinach), buying in bulk often results in food wastage. Items tend to go bad before we have a chance to consume them.

Although it is tempting to buy more than what you need to get the sweet deal of 10 for S$10, avoid unnecessary spending and stress. This does not apply to parents who have a huge family with many mouths to feed.

#11: YOU DISREGARD THE COST PER UNIT

Cost per kilo and cost per unit are important in making informed decisions. When we think of bundles, we usually associate getting more items for an affordable price. However, this is not always the case! Compare bundles with standalone items to get your money’s worth.

For instance, you are buying cartons of juice.

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2 cartons of 275ml juice cost S$5, which totals to about S$0.009/ml
1 carton of 500ml juice costs S$3.50, which totals to about $0.007/ml

The difference between these prices may seem minute, but it can affect your savings in the long run. Remember to check the price of the item versus its quantity. Additionally, you have to compare the prices across the available brands. These steps may take time, but your wallet will surely thank you later.

Sources: 1, 2, 3, & 4

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